Not allowing those who are genetically inclined to prefer the same sex to marry leaves homosexuals with three choices. The first is to remain celibate their entire lives so as not to "live in sin"; the second is to marry someone they do not truly love or find attractive simply for the marriage benefits; the third and final choice is to live together with their partner and face the dirty looks of fellow citizens, simply because they are living together though they are not married. (Stoddard 413)
Marriage goes beyond the benefits. However, the institution of marriage is extremely respected one, and holds many social values. If we look at the Declaration of Independence for inspiration, we read that,
“WE hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Does this exclude homosexuals? Many think so simply because they believe that marriage is not a right, but a privilege. Those who oppose this argument see marriage in a different way. They believe that if you love someone, you have the right to bond yourself to them legally. There are many legal and economic benefits to marriage and generally, married couples are more economically stable. (Sullivan 170)
The practice of homosexuality is something that is greatly influenced by environment and society. I believe that if someone is genetically predisposed towards homosexuality, but their social situation does not bring it out, they will act as a heterosexual, but never love to the fullest extent a member of the opposite sex. I believe that a male who grows up as a Catholic in the Bible belt with the homosexual gene will be more likely to marry a female and never realize that he has a different calling. Meanwhile, a man growing up in New York City with the homosexual gene, will realize almost from day one, and grow up content. Although I said earlier that gene is responsible for deciding ones sexuality. There are also many psychological factors that effect ones sexual inclination towards the particular sex. Therefore, the environment and society play a large role in determining one's sexual behavior. I think that some people are predisposed to homosexuality, but that alone does not insure that those people will be homosexual. (Stoddard 415)
In conclusion, I think we must legalize gay marriage for all of the reasons stated above. The constitution protects all people, not just those who are attracted to the opposite sex. Homosexuals are predisposed to their orientation, and deserve the same rights as everyone else. Marriage is a right, not a privilege, and everyone deserves that right. There are legal as well as sentimental benefits to marriage. Any two people who are in love with one another and are ready to bond themselves legally as well as emotionally have the right to get married whether they are gay or straight.
Homosexuals are people, too. If one gene in everyone's DNA had been slightly different, everyone could be homosexual. There are only two ways to establish a policy of equality: I believe we should give rights to all, or do not give rights to anyone.
Works Cited
Jefferson, Thomas “Action of Second Continental Congress, July 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen United States of America.
Stoddard, Thomas B. "Gay Marriages: Make Them Legal." Current Issues
and Enduring Questions. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin's, 1999. 413-420.
Sullivan, Andrew. Same-Sex Marriage: Pro and Con. New York: Vintage,
1997.
New York City is one of the biggest centers of homosexual community. (http://www.gaydemographics.org/USA/USA.htm )
